- Sku: FW1-F6303
- Vendor: Squeaky's Aquatics
Purple Batik Guppy (Poecilia reticulata)
The Purple Batik Guppy (Poecilia reticulata) is named for the Indonesian dye art it resembles: a deep violet-black body flowing into a wide fan tail veined with purple and white lace, no two males patterned alike. It is among the most dramatic dark-bodied strains in the hobby, and underneath the costume it is still a guppy: hardy, peaceful, tirelessly active, and beginner friendly. Browse the rest of our freshwater livestock and supplies to round out the tank.
Care Guide
- Tank size: 5 gallons or larger for a small group; 10 and up shows off a display school best.
- Water parameters: 72 to 82°F, pH 6.8 to 8.0. Guppies prefer harder, more alkaline water with some mineral content.
- Feeding: omnivore. A color-enhancing staple like Hikari Fancy Guppy plus frozen or freeze-dried treats a few times a week keeps the purple deep and the lace crisp.
- Show off the color: dark substrate and a planted background make the violet body and pale lace tail pop under standard lighting.
- Plants and lid: dense plants like Guppy Grass shelter fry, and a lid stops surprise jumps.
Specifications
| Scientific name | Poecilia reticulata |
| Common names | Purple Batik Guppy, Batik Guppy |
| Care level | Beginner |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Max size | About 2 inches |
| Minimum tank | 5 gallons |
| Temperature | 72 to 82°F |
| pH | 6.8 to 8.0 |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Breeding | Livebearer |
| Pickup | In-store pickup at Squeaky's Aquatics |
Compatibility
A model community citizen alongside peaceful nano and mid-size fish: tetras, rasboras, corys, snails, and adult Neocaridina shrimp. Avoid fin nippers, which find wide lace tails irresistible, and anything big enough to swallow a 2 inch fish. Building out the livebearer rack? Compare the Silverado Bumblebee, Blue Neon Tuxedo Pair, Navy Blue Cobra, and Assorted Guppies.
Recommended Foods & Supplies
- Hikari Fancy Guppy color-enhancing staple
- Guppy Grass fry cover and water polisher
- Ocean Nutrition Instant Baby Brine Shrimp for raising fry
FAQ
Why "Batik"?
Batik is the Indonesian wax-dye textile art known for intricate veined patterns. The lace-like webbing across this strain's tail looks hand-dyed, and every male wears a slightly different print.
Will the purple fade?
Color intensity tracks health. Clean, slightly hard water, quality color-enhancing food, and low stress keep the violet saturated; a pale batik is asking for a water change.
Will they breed with my other guppies?
Yes, all fancy guppy strains are one species, and mixed tanks make mixed fry. Keep the line separate if you want true Batik offspring.
How many should I get?
Groups of 3 or more behave best. Males-only stays decorative with zero surprises; add females and expect fry within a month.
Have a question?
Purple Batik Guppy (Poecilia reticulata)
